If you’re looking to take your career to the next level with a focused and practical qualification, the University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a wide range of Advanced Diploma programmes for the 2026 academic year. These programmes are designed for students who already hold a diploma or degree and want to gain specialised knowledge in a particular field.
Whether you’re advancing in Accounting, Engineering, Education, Agriculture, or Public Safety, UNISA’s Advanced Diplomas offer flexible, distance-learning options that fit into your professional life.
What is an Advanced Diploma?
An Advanced Diploma is an NQF Level 7 qualification designed to deepen your expertise in a specific career field. These qualifications are ideal for:
- Diploma or degree holders seeking specialisation
- Professionals aiming for career advancement
- Candidates who want to bridge into postgraduate studies
UNISA offers all its Advanced Diplomas via open distance e-learning (ODeL) — giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere in South Africa or abroad.
📚 Full List of UNISA Advanced Diploma Courses for 2026
Accounting & Finance
- Advanced Diploma in Accounting Sciences: Certificate in The Theory of Accounting (Revised Curriculum 2020) (98230 – CT1)
- Advanced Diploma in Accounting Sciences: Financial Accounting (98230 – FAC)
- Advanced Diploma in Accounting Sciences: Internal Auditing (98230 – AUI)
- Advanced Diploma in Accounting Sciences: Management Accounting (Revised Curriculum 2020) (98230 – MA1)
- Advanced Diploma in Accounting Sciences: Taxation (98230 – TAX)
Agriculture & Animal Sciences
- Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Management (98027)
- Advanced Diploma in Animal Health (90112)
Engineering & Technology
- Advanced Diploma in Chemical Engineering (90128)
- Advanced Diploma in Electrical Engineering: Power Engineering (90126)
- Advanced Diploma in Electrical Engineering: Telecommunications (90127)
- Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (90133)
- Advanced Diploma in Mining Engineering (90131)
- Advanced Diploma in Industrial Engineering (90134)
- Advanced Diploma in Engineering Technology: Civil Engineering (90142)
Education
- Advanced Diploma in Education in Intermediate Phase Mathematics Teaching (90113)
- Advanced Diploma in Senior Phase Natural Science Education (90166)
- Advanced Diploma in Teaching and Learning Support
Environment & Nature
- Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation (98028)
- Advanced Diploma in Ornamental and Landscape Horticulture (90094)
Safety, Management & ICT
- Advanced Diploma in Explosives Management (90124)
- Advanced Diploma in Information Resource Management (90007)
- Advanced Diploma in Safety Management (90181)
- Advanced Diploma in Security Management (98235)
- Advanced Diploma in Computer Integrated Education (90165)
Admission Requirements
To apply for an Advanced Diploma at UNISA, you typically need:
- A relevant 3-year National Diploma or bachelor’s degree
- Completion of prerequisite major subjects depending on the programme
- In some cases, work experience or SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications
Each programme has its own faculty-specific requirements, so check the official UNISA qualification pages for full details.
How to Apply
Applications for UNISA Advanced Diplomas are done online only via the official UNISA portal.
Click here to browse and apply for Advanced Diplomas at UNISA
Be sure to:
- Upload certified copies of your academic records
- Include any additional documentation requested (e.g., CV for work-experience-based programmes)
Final Tips for Applicants
- Double-check prerequisites for your programme
- Apply early — many programmes have limited intake
- Look into NSFAS or employer funding for financial support
- UNISA offers career counselling and placement tools to help you decide
Advance your skills and boost your career in 2026 with an Advanced Diploma from UNISA — South Africa’s leading distance education institution.
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